Normally, yews don't get sick that easily. The robust native tree can cope with almost all weather conditions and locations. Nevertheless, diseases occasionally occur if location or care mistakes are made. What diseases can occur?

Soft needles can be an indication of fungal infection

Abnormalities indicate diseases of the yew

The best way to tell if your yew is sick is by the discoloration of the needles. These become light, yellow or brown, become soft or even fall off. Sometimes they look crippled too.

As soon as you notice changes in the needles, you should examine the tree for diseases or pests.

What diseases and pests can occur?

  • root rot
  • fungus
  • pest infestation

Mostly care mistakes responsible

Root rot and fungal infestation almost always indicate an unfavorable location and care errors. The soil is too wet, causing waterlogging. The tree does not receive enough nutrients or is too close to other plants.

When planting, make sure the soil is permeable to water. If necessary, create a drainage. Amend the soil with mature compost, horn shavings ($39.99) or lime.

Protect young trees from excessive sunlight, even in winter.

Fungal infestation can hardly be treated

If the yew is infested with fungi, there is little you can do. You must dig up and dispose of heavily infected trees. If the fungal infestation is not too severe, it can help to cut off all the branches and save the needles as well. Dispose of the plant parts carefully.

diseases caused by pests

The yew is most troubled by the scale insect. She is difficult to fight. Break up ant trails and use biological pest control such as parasitic wasps (€22.99).

The vine weevil, which hides in the ground, eats the needles and digs tunnels in the trunk. Against him you can use nematodes, which will eat the larvae from the inside.

Gall wasps are not quite as harmful. They cause stunted needles and form small, rounded bumps on branches. Cut off affected branches generously and dispose of them with household waste.

tips

Choose a favorable location for your yew right from the start. Waterlogging is absolutely harmful. Young trees also do not like too much direct sunlight.

Category:

Trees